Checkmate: Trump and the Khans

The Democratic National Convention certainly laid out the foundation for Hillary’s campaign in the general elections. It preached a highly inclusive rhetoric that was reinforced with speeches from individuals that represented several different minorities in the United States; one of these speeches was given by Khizr Khan, a Muslim American.With Trump popular for his “temporary ban on Muslims” proposal, Hillary made sure to take the Muslim community under her wing and garner their support, like a true politician. This move proved to be among her best ones:

Khizr Khan’s son was a US soldier, who lost his life fighting for America in Iraq. To die as a martyr is considered to be a sacrifice of the highest caliber in society and to be the acme of patriotism by all Americans. Therefore, Capt. Khan and his family’s place in the country became unquestionable for Americans simply because of his sacrifice. It touched the soft spot for many; hence when Khan claimed to care as much about America as anyone else and denounced Trump, America silently and respectfully listened. While this certainly conveys an essential message of unity and oneness, it would be unfair to ignore the brilliance behind this move.

Knowing  his criticism of the speakers at the DNC was inevitable, Hillary played the game very cleverly. Whether America admits it or not, the topic of martyrs tends to strike a nerve. Showing respect and love for martyrs is something America succumbs to every time, therefore “The Khan card” was the perfect card.

Trump has gained popularity lambasting Muslims and compromising on their identity as Americans for overall national security. He could only respond to this speech in three ways. First: if Trump lauds the Khans and their son’s sacrifice, then he counters his own agenda, the “anti-Muslim” sentiments he has been using to fuel his campaign and ends up giving support to Hillary’s claims. Second: if he chooses to criticize the Khans, then be will receive backlash from an emotional America and will end up looking like the bad guy. Third: if he opts to not respond at all, then Khan’s words would gear America in support of Hillary. This is certainly evident:

According to CNN, after the DNC, when asked about Khan, Trump begins his answer with “was, you know, very emotional and probably looked like a nice guy to me.” He added that Capt. Khan was “a hero to our country and we should honor all who have made the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country safe.” However, following that, he criticized Khizr Khan for all he accused Trump of, accused Hillary of writing Khan’s speech for him and stated that Khan’s wife was probably not allowed to speak that’s why she stood next to him silently the whole time.

After these statements everyone attacked Trump like a vulture: not only did Khan’s wife respond to Trump’s statement in writing, but Muslim American women also started to make #CanYouHearUsNow trend. The media flooded the electorate with “Trump vs Khan” articles, as reporters and mediums rushed to interview each side and add kerosene. Americans furiously demanded to know about the sacrifices Trump has made for the country, if any. In addition, John McCain released a statement praising Khan and his family while criticizing Trump for his comments about the family, stating that his comments didn’t represent the Republican ideology.

While ethics and morality are always admirable, skill and brilliant moves should be appreciated, even in politics. Regardless of who wins, both candidates should be lauded for their prowess as politicians when need be. This one goes to Hillary for sure and only one word seems fitting for this smart move: checkmate.    

Featured Image via Wikimedia